Infants Born Preterm: Identifying and Addressing Their Special Needs in Early Infancy to Support Development

Course Description:

Have you ever felt "at a loss" when treating a one month old...or an infant whose chronological age hasn't yet reached term? Have you ever assessed an infant born preterm and seen movement issues that weren't reflected in the norm referenced tests? In this course, you will learn how to treat movement dysfunction in infants born preterm beginning at NICU discharge. We will assess movement pattern differences on which to build effective treatment interventions and address the challenges unique to the population of infants born preterm. Intervention handling and facilitation techniques will be introduced for use during functional activities with infants born preterm. Interventions and techniques will be appropriate for in-home early intervention and parent coaching.

The instructor will use lecture, video, lab, and problem solving formats. During the lab components, you will learn to treat by working with other class participants and with dolls. You should bring a beach towel (or yoga mat), a 20" Raggedy Ann type doll, and wear clothing that is comfortable and easy to move in.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

Compare and contrast developmental movement components in infants born full term and preterm from birth.

Identify insufficient and atypical movement components seen in infancy that will interfere with the development of functional activities and development of coordination as the child reaches school age.

Discuss age appropriate treatment strategies regarding trunk function, handling, treatment sequencing, child motivation, and repetition to enhance your repertoire of treatment techniques and home program activities for infants born preterm.

Apply knowledge gained about respiratory, visual, medical and physical challenges to effectively formulate infant treatment techniques to better meet the needs of infants born preterm and their families.

The National Association of Neonatal Therapists (NANT) and Education Resources, Inc. announce a partnership to strengthen the quality and accessibility of continuing education for neonatal therapists.